Warwick MMI

Question 1

Teamwork / leadership

Answer 1

• I took on leadership roles/worked in a team when conducting group work during my degree by using my communication and organisation skills to delegate tasks fairly, organise meetings at times suited to everyone, and meet deadlines.
• I created a professional group chat that was used to communicate and deal with any problems anyone experienced before meetings and ensure successful collaboration was achieved which was done by using our meetings and the group chat as a space to share ideas and explore each other’s perspectives.
• I think this was something that we all benefitted from because we were able to gain insight into alternative perspectives that individually, we may not have considered. Having this system in place helped to motivate others and myself to stay resilient and on the right track in terms of workload.
• These attributes are fundamental during medical school and life as a doctor as they relate directly to the NHS value of ‘working together for patients’. Collaboration is key for delivering optimal patient care.
• The ability to effectively communicate, delegate tasks, and organize meetings is directly transferable to medical team dynamics. Task delegation and meeting deadlines echoes the NHS value of ‘commitment to quality of care’ as precision and adherence to timelines are critical.
• My experience reinforced the significance of these values, ensuring that the team could deliver quality work within the set time frame—a skill that is needed in the fast-paced and demanding environment of medical education and practice.

Question 2

Teamwork (WEX)

Answer 2

• I worked as a vaccinator in a mass COVID-19 vaccination centre where teamwork was indispensable due to the high volume of service users. The entire vaccination program relied heavily on collaboration within the multidisciplinary team to ensure efficiency in a such a high-pressure environment.
• I collaborated daily with registered healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and administrative staff. This links to the NHS values of ‘everyone counts’ and ‘working together for patients’ as vaccination programs are collaborative efforts that involve various healthcare professionals, administrators, and community workers working together for the well-being of the public.
• One notable instance involved an autistic child who was nervous about receiving the vaccine. By collaborating with a colleague, we devised a creative solution, leveraging the child’s interest in planes to make the experience more comfortable.
• This showcased effective teamwork and creative problem solving whilst also upholding ethical principles such as beneficence and non-maleficence. We came up with a solution where we ‘did good’ and acted in the boy’s best interest by eventually administrating the vaccine and did no harm by avoiding the emotional distress that the boy was previously facing.
• This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. I developed valuable communication skills that allowed me to connect with service users on a personal level and enabled adaptability in both verbal and non-verbal communication styles for people of all ages/backgrounds, contributing to their overall positive experience.
• This is something I owe greatly to being part of such an amazing MDT where we were able to utilize our individual skillsets and competencies, leaning on each other for support when needed.
• As a future medical student (hopefully), I recognize the significance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. These experiences will serve as templates for navigating complex situations in medical school and, eventually, as a doctor working within a multidisciplinary team.

Question 3

Resilience

Answer 3

• In my gap year, I undertook a research project that demanded a high level of resilience. I was working on a systematic review and meta-analysis, and one of the challenges I faced was finding suitable software for the analysis. This alone required a lot of research and experimentation with different software attempting to find the most suitable, as I wanted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of my findings.
• Another aspect that tested my resilience was the process of getting the research paper published. I encountered multiple hurdles, from understanding the submission requirements of different journals to facing rejections after submitting my work. Journal feedback often required me to make amendments, and despite making the necessary changes, I continued to face rejection.
• Rather than letting these setbacks demotivate me, I used them as opportunities for growth. I was self-aware and knew I needed some guidance on how to get published and sought out feedback from friends undergoing PhDs who had experience in research. It was a challenging and iterative process, but I was determined to make my work accessible to the wider academic community.
• Eventually, my persistence paid off, and the paper was accepted for publication. This experience taught me the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. It reinforced my belief in the value of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous improvement. Going through this process not only enhanced my research and analytical skills but also strengthened my ability to navigate challenges in a composed and determined manner.
• I am aware medical school and life as a doctor is demanding and resilience is important in providing the best care for patients as there will be setbacks and complex cases that require the adaptability and persistence that I have displayed during my time writing my research paper.
• The dedication to continuous improvement aligns with the NHS value of striving for excellence. My experience of refining my research paper based on feedback and persisting until publication reflects a commitment to quality that is foundational to the NHS’s mission.

Question 4

Resilience (WEX)

Answer 4

• The COVID-19 pandemic led to a lot of challenges and obtaining medical work experience was a difficult one. I demonstrated resilience when searching for this invaluable experience. Faced with numerous rejections due to the policies of NHS trusts, I acknowledged the importance of adapting to the circumstances and learning from setbacks.
• To navigate through this challenging period, I proactively sought alternative avenues to gain insight into the medical field. I engaged in virtual opportunities such as observe GP and the brighton and sussex virtual work experience. I also and reached out to healthcare professionals that I met when working as a vaccinator.
• Each rejection was indirectly building me with the confidence to keep asking and seeking out opportunities and eventually paid off with me securing 2 additional work experiences in surgery and prison medicine.
• This experience has highlighted my adaptability but has also reinforced my commitment to pursuing medicine. I recognize that the ability to persevere during challenging times and this is a skill that’s crucial for both medical school and a future as a doctor, where challenges are inevitable, for example, when breaking bad news to patients.
• Resilience is a key attribute in delivering optimal patient care as you cannot allow yourself to give up when faced with hurdles but rather you should find a way to work around them.

Question 5

Empathy (book)

Answer 5

• During the pandemic, I combined my passion for writing with a deep commitment to aiding other – something that has equipped me with invaluable skills for a future in medicine.
• Creating a 5-star rated book on mental health during such difficult times, I sought to not only raise awareness but also to extend a compassionate hand to those grappling with mental health issues.
• Emphasizing empathy throughout, I incorporated helplines within the book, recognizing the vital role of immediate support. This act was driven by my understanding of the inherent stigma surrounding mental health and a genuine desire to demonstrate that mental illness isn’t limited to a ‘certain’ type of person. By showcasing it’s universal impact, I aimed to foster empathy and break down stereotypes that can hinder seeking help.
• Keeping the NHS value of ‘Respect and Dignity’ in mind, I created a resource that respects the diverse needs of individuals facing mental health challenges. This not only contributes to a more inclusive society but also reflects my commitment to providing patient-centred care.
• The ability to connect with patients on a compassionate level, to understand the unique aspects of their mental health journey, aligns seamlessly with the NHS value of ‘Working Together for Patients.’ The commitment to a holistic understanding of health, inclusive of mental well-being, is vital in providing the best possible care for patients.
• My writing acts as a template for my future as a doctor, emphasizing empathy, consistency, and a commitment to reducing barriers to care. These skills enable me to contribute meaningfully to the NHS values and to the well-being of future patients.

Question 6

Empathy (WEX)

Answer 6

• During school visits when working as a vaccinator, I was faced with a situation that highlighted the importance of empathy and communication skills. A young girl, with significant self-harm wounds, confided in me and trusted me with her vulnerabilities.
• In navigating this delicate scenario, maintaining confidentiality, and prioritizing the patient’s best interest tested my professionalism.
• I recognized that her physical wounds were symbolic of emotional struggles and one of the NHS values is putting patients first. Here, I maintained open communication and utilized my non-verbal communication skills to display empathy and show her that her worries were being listened to. I let her know that I really value her autonomy and ability to make her own decisions however, I stressed the importance of escalating this situation to ensure she has the right support available for her.
• This involved navigating her concerns on why she didn’t want this to be shared and showing empathy was crucial to guarantee the pillar of beneficence was followed through. Eventually, we came to a collaborative decision and escalated this to my supervisor because I was self-aware and knew I was out of my depth.
• I feel as though I displayed the NHS value of respect and dignity as I carried out empathetic communication by considering her mental health and emotions in relation to her overall wellbeing.
• Reflecting on this, I feel the ability to connect with patients on an emotional level and handling ethical challenges is essential in providing holistic and patient-centred care – something that will no doubt be needed during medical school and life as a doctor.

Question 7

Communication / Respect and Dignity

Answer 7

• During school visits when working as a vaccinator, I was faced with a situation that highlighted the importance of empathy and communication skills. A young girl, with significant self-harm wounds, confided in me and trusted me with her vulnerabilities.
• In navigating this delicate scenario, maintaining confidentiality, and prioritizing the patient’s best interest tested my professionalism.
• I recognized that her physical wounds were symbolic of emotional struggles and one of the NHS values is putting patients first. Here, I maintained open communication and utilized my non-verbal communication skills to display empathy and show her that her worries were being listened to.
• I let her know that I really value her autonomy and ability to make her own decisions however, I stressed the importance of escalating this situation to ensure she has the right support available for her.
• This involved navigating her concerns on why she didn’t want this to be shared and showing empathy was crucial to guarantee the pillar of beneficence was followed through. Eventually, we came to a collaborative decision and escalated this to my supervisor because I was self-aware and knew I was out of my depth.
• I feel as though I displayed the NHS value of respect and dignity as I carried out empathetic communication by considering her mental health and emotions in relation to her overall wellbeing.
• Reflecting on this, I feel the ability to connect with patients on an emotional level and handling ethical challenges is essential in providing holistic and patient-centred care – something that will no doubt be needed during medical school and life as a doctor.

Question 8

Morals

Answer 8

• Where I work, there’s a homeless man who often sits outside. Over time, our interactions evolved from simple gestures of buying him food to building a meaningful friendship.
• This experience has been deeply rooted in my moral beliefs. I believe that compassion and empathy are essential components of our humanity. The decision to extend a helping hand reflects a commitment to my own personal morals.
• The honesty and integrity in understanding the humanity of another person, is a fundamental aspect of ethical conduct and is in line with the ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence as if I had chosen not to help him, it could have been that he didn’t eat that day which could have a knock on effect on his health in the long term.
• The NHS principle of compassion goes beyond clinical settings. By buying food and building a friendship, I reflected the NHS values of treating every individual with kindness and understanding.
• As a doctor, my role would extend beyond the clinical environment. It is associated with commitment to the well-being of the community. This is a reminder that healthcare is not only about treating illnesses but also about addressing the factors that impact health.
• Beyond the personal connection, advocating for vulnerable populations is a responsibility we carry as healthcare professionals. This was something I saw in action during my work experience at a prison primary care facility as regardless of an individual’s situation, they are entitled to healthcare.
• This is in line with the ethical pillar of justice where everyone’s needs should be met and if I have the means to do so, it is my ethical obligation to do so.
• In conclusion, this experience has been a powerful reminder that our actions, even seemingly small ones, can have a profound impact. As a medical student/doctor it is essential to display values of compassion, probity, and advocacy, recognizing that every person we encounter has a story that deserves acknowledgment and respect.

Question 9

Insight into medicine

Answer 9

• Being aware of what you plan on dedicating your life to is a must and is a crucial part of making informed decisions when it comes to career aspirations and life in general.
• From working as a vaccinator to shadowing doctors in various settings (both in-person and virtually), I have gained experience into what the field entails.
• Faced with numerous rejections for work experience due to the covid-19 policies of NHS trusts, I acknowledged the importance of adapting to the circumstances and learning from setbacks by displaying resilience when seeking out work experience opportunities.
• One significant moment in my journey was witnessing doctors holistically caring for patients, especially during emergency resuscitation procedures. This reaffirmed my belief that medicine is not just a career but a calling.
• Shadowing a prison doctor shed light on the role of a doctor as an advocate, aligning with NHS values of inclusivity and the ethical principle of justice by ensuring equitable healthcare distribution.
• Observing a surgeon take charge of a surgical team and inspire residents provided me with insights into the leadership and responsibility integral to a doctor’s role. This experience emphasized the importance of effective communication, motivating team members, and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations and the leadership skills doctors possess that go hand in hand with the level of responsibility they posess.
• As a vaccinator working within a multidisciplinary team, I gained hands-on clinical experience that demonstrated NHS values such as working together for patient care. Dealing with individuals who were apprehensive about needles highlighted the significance of empathy, adaptability, and communication—both verbal and non-verbal—in establishing trust and acting in their best interests. I even gained insight into the importance of audits and managed to conduct one myself.
• These experiences have deepened my commitment to pursuing medicine. Collaborating not only with the multidisciplinary team but also with patients, respecting their autonomy, has been a source of immense satisfaction.
• To sum up, I recognize that the ability to persevere during challenging times and this is a skill that’s crucial for both medical school and a future as a doctor, where challenges are inevitable, for example, when breaking bad news to patients.

Question 10

Critical thinking

Answer 10

• I recall a young girl who was left alone by her mum, and she had passed out post-vaccination. When she gained consciousness, I offered her some biscuits to help with her blood sugar levels and she accepted. Her mum returned and verbally started abusing the young girl.
• Me and my colleague noticed that the girl was very talkative when she was alone with us but as soon as her mum returned, she was quiet. I stayed with the family whilst my colleague went to raise a safeguarding concern but at the same time, the family was adamant that they were leaving.
• I walked out with the young girl and managed to get her date of birth and full name reassuring her as best as I could.
• I displayed initiative by deciding it would best for her to go home to not make her mum suspicious of anything as that could have potentially led to the girl in a more difficult situation at home. I spoke to my manager afterwards and was able to locate the young girls NHS number based on the name and DOB I managed to get, and my manager reassured me that she would be in touch with the girls GP to raise this concern. I was self-aware in knowing that I did the best I could in the moment.
• Here, I showed initiative and critical thinking by acting in the best interest of the girl and avoiding additional harm by allowing her to go home. I also took initiative by getting her details so that further support could be made available via the GP.
• I learnt the importance of acting in the patients best interest (following the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence) and how my duty of care extended beyond the vaccination centre to ensure her wellbeing.
• The importance of being able to make quick decisions and thinking on your feet is crucial in medicine as lifechanging decisions will be required in emergency situations when leading the MDT as a doctor.
• The NHS constitution states that the patient should be at the heart of what the NHS does and during med school/career as a doctor, it’s extremely important to be self-aware and to escalate the situation when you feel out of your depth.

Question 11

Skills important in teamwork / Skills that are important to have.

Answer 11

• I do think several skills are important but the 3 most notable skills to me are communication, team working and self-awareness.
• Communication skills are important for building connections and interpersonal relationships by aiding in the development of mutual respect and growth. I also believe communication underpins almost every other skill. For example, utilizing empathy to resolve conflict and helping collaboration with others. In medicine, being able to communicate and build rapport with patients and the MDT is essential to ensure trust is formed which can lead to better patient care.
• Team working is important for achieving common goals by utilizing various skillsets that are present. It helps to build problem-solving skills whilst enabling the creation of a support network. Personal growth can come from teamwork as it can trigger you to consider alternative perspectives you usually wouldn’t have considered. This is necessary in medicine because as a doctor, you will be collaborating with various healthcare professionals daily when working towards the NHS value of commitment to quality of care.
• Self-awareness is important for personal growth and its arguably the very foundation in understanding yourself, your emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. It’s important in ensuring that you work within your competency whilst also building resilience when setting personal goals. It aids in better decision-making skills. Competency is one of the 6Cs of the NHS and knowing when to ask for help is necessary and follow the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence as it can help avoid any mistakes being made. This then improves patient care and ensures the best possible outcomes are achieved.
• To conclude, communication, team working and self-awareness skills are essential for the successful collaboration in the medical field. They ensure the patient is always at the heart of the NHS (as stated by the NHS constitution) and ensure the best quality of care is provided for patients.

Question 12

Integrity

Answer 12

• Integrity is crucial because it reflects an individual’s commitment to honesty, ethics, and moral principles.
• the NHS emphasizes integrity as it is important in ensuring patients’ well-being and maintaining public trust
• I showed integrity during my time as a vaccinator when an elderly gentleman moved whilst I was administering his vaccine.
• this led to a needle stick injury and not all of the dose was administered which could have put the gentleman at risk by going against the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence if left undealt with.
• I showed integrity by owning up and accepting responsibility for this and seeking help from the medic in charge by asking if he could have another dose to ensure he was fully protected, especially as he was elderly.
• here my honesty and integrity was crucial to ensure patient safety and protection from Covid. This was in line with the pillar of justice, ensuring everyone receives the same protection & this aligns with the NHS value of ensuring quality of care.
• In this context, my experience in completing an audit further reinforces the importance of integrity.
• this is important as both a medical student and a Doctor, because taking responsibility is essential for maintaining the public’s confidence in the profession and abiding by one’s own moral and ethical standards.
• The ability to recognize and rectify errors mirrors the commitment to transparency and accountability as integrating audit into professional practice contributes to ongoing improvement, aligning with the NHS value of continuous quality enhancement

Question 13

Why is resilience important in medicine?

Answer 13

• Resilience is crucial for doctors and medical students due to the demanding and often stressful nature of the medical profession.
• The medical field is known for its high-pressure environments, long working hours, and the need to make critical decisions. Resilience helps individuals cope with stress, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain their well-being in challenging situations.
• Doctors often encounter patients facing serious illnesses, complex medical conditions, and emotional distress. Resilience enables healthcare professionals to provide compassionate and effective care, even in emotionally challenged situations.
• Medicine is a dynamic field that constantly evolves with new research, technologies, and treatment modalities. Resilient individuals can adapt to changes, embrace new information, and continue learning throughout their careers.
• Medicine involves a high level of responsibility, and errors can have serious consequences. Resilience helps doctors and medical students learn from mistakes, improve their skills, and move forward without being overwhelmed by guilt or fear.

The prevalence of mental health issues in the medical profession underscores the importance of resilience. Developing strong coping mechanisms helps doctors and medical students manage stress, reduce the risk of burnout, and maintain good mental health by having a good work-life balance.

• Long Training Period: Medical education and training are lengthy and rigorous processes. Resilience helps perseverance through the demanding curriculum, and exams, helping you to stay focused.
• In summary, resilience is a vital quality for doctors and medical students as it empowers them to navigate the unique challenges of the medical profession, promote personal well-being, and deliver high-quality care to their patients.

Question 14

High suicide contemplation rates in medical school - why? How can they be prevented?

Answer 14

• Academic Pressure: Medical education is rigorous, demanding, and competitive. The pressure to perform well academically can contribute to stress and anxiety.
• High Expectations and perfectionism: Many medical students enter the field with high expectations and a desire to excel. The fear of not meeting these expectations (either ones they have for themselves or those that others have for them) can lead to imposter syndrome.
• Clinical Pressures: Dealing with human suffering, life-and-death decisions, and the responsibility of patient care can take a toll on a student’s emotional well-being.
• Isolation and Burnout: The demanding nature of medical education can lead to social isolation and burnout. Long hours, sleep deprivation, and the intensity of the workload can contribute to a sense of exhaustion and isolation.
• Financial Strain: Medical education often comes with significant financial burdens. The cost of tuition, living expenses, and the potential for student loan debt can create additional stress and worry.
• Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: There is a persistent stigma in the medical community around mental health issues. Fear of judgment or concerns about professional repercussions may discourage students from seeking help when needed.
• Lack of Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of medical training often makes it challenging for students to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This imbalance can contribute to stress and impact mental well-being.
• Lack of Support Systems: Some students may feel a lack of support from peers, faculty, or mentors due to the competitive nature of med school. A sense of isolation without a strong support network can be challenging.

SOLUTIONS:
- providing accessible mental health resources, implementing support programs. Many schools have pastoral services but some may feel apprehensive to use these.

• reducing stigma, and fostering a culture that prioritizes the well-being of students and professionals in the medical field. Open communication and support can play a vital role in preventing and addressing mental health challenges in medical education.
• helping with financial burdens as many students find it hard to work alongside med school. support with essential medical school supplies such as stethoscopes can help relieve some of the financial burden.

Question 15

When was the NHS founded and what were the founding principles?

Answer 15

• Founded in 1948 with 3 core principles:

1.Everyones needs should be met
2.Free at the point of delivery
3.Based upon clinical need

Question 16

What are the 6C’s of the NHS?

Answer 16

1. Care – core business as the care we deliver helps the individual and improves the health of the whole community.
2. Compassion – how care is given through relationships based on empathy, respect, and dignity.
3. Communication – central to successful, caring relationships and to effective team working. Listening is as important as what we say.
4. Competence – having the expertise, clinical and technical knowledge to deliver effective care and treatments based on research and evidence.
5. Courage – enables us to do the right thing for the people we care, to speak up when we have concerns. It allows us to have strength and embrace new ways of working.
6. Commitment – to patients and populations I order to improve care and patient experience.

Question 17

NHS constitution (7 principles)

Answer 17

1. The NHS provides a comprehensive service, available to all.
2. Access to NHS services is based on clinical need, not an individual’s ability to pay.
3. The NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism.
4. The patient will be at the heart of everything the NHS does.
5. The NHS works across organisational boundaries.
6. The NHS is committed to providing best value for taxpayers’ money.
7. The NHS is accountable to the public, communities, and patients that it serves.

Question 18

You are a medical professional working in a community health clinic in a low-income neighborhood. A patient comes in with a chronic medical condition that requires long-term medication, but they express concerns about their ability to afford the prescribed treatment. The clinic has limited resources, and there are no alternative medications available. How would you approach this situation, considering the ethical principles of justice, beneficence, and resource allocation?

Answer 18

• I would first acknowledge the patient’s concerns and maintain an open line of communication whilst I empathize with their financial challenges.
• The ethical principles of beneficence and non-maleficence guides us to prioritize the well-being of the patient, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical care.
• I would explore potential solutions, such as exploring whether free testers of the drug are available to the practise. Alternatively, finding out if there’s a way to seek support covering prescription costs could be a potential path to follow which would fall in line with the pillar of justice in regard to the limited resources available. I’m aware of assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies which could be another branch to follow. This aligns with the goal of providing fair and just healthcare despite economic difficulties ensuring that the patient has access to necessary treatments.
• In the long term, signposting them to agencies that can help them to find a job may help address the financial burden on the patient.
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals is crucial in addressing the broader social reasonings of health that may impact the patient’s ability to adhere to their treatment plan.
• In summary, my approach would involve exploring available resources, involving support services, and engaging in open communication with the patient to address their financial concerns while upholding the principles of beneficence, justice, and responsible resource allocation.

Question 19

How would you ensure your personal bias and emotions don’t interfere with the care of your patients?

Answer 19

• It’s very important to ensure my own personal bias don’t influence patient care and that I am acting in the best interest of the patient.
• Cultural Competence: Making an effort to educate myself about diverse cultural backgrounds, values, and belief systems. For example, understanding that Jehovah witnesses don’t agree with blood transfusions and respecting their autonomy. This knowledge enables me to appreciate and respect the uniqueness of each patient, minimizing the potential impact of bias.
• Empathy and Active Listening: By prioritizing empathetic communication and active listening, I can understand patients’ perspectives, concerns, and preferences without letting my personal emotions or biases cloud the delivery of care.
• Professional Boundaries: Maintaining professional boundaries is essential to preventing personal emotions from affecting patient care. I understand the importance of separating my personal experiences or emotions from the professional context, ensuring that my decisions are based on clinical evidence and patient needs.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborating with a diverse healthcare team is an effective way to ensure comprehensive and unbiased care. By engaging in interdisciplinary discussions, I benefit from different perspectives and contribute to a collective effort in delivering patient-centred care that is free from personal bias.

In conclusion, my commitment to self-awareness, cultural competence, empathy, professional boundaries, and team collaboration forms a comprehensive strategy to prevent personal bias and emotions from interfering with the care of my patients. This approach allows me to uphold the principles of fairness, equity, and patient-centeredness in all aspects of healthcare delivery.

Question 20

Sex selection (IVF)

Answer 20

• As a physician, my approach would involve a careful consideration of ethical principles, communication, and an exploration of the couple’s underlying concerns.
• To ensure informed decision-making, I would encourage an open and honest dialogue. This involves actively listening to the couple’s perspectives, addressing their questions, and providing comprehensive information about the available options. It’s crucial to create an environment where they feel supported and respected.
• I would emphasize the ethical dimension of sex selection. I would explain that sex selection for non-medical reasons raises ethical concerns due to potential gender bias and the implications for societal norms. It’s crucial to ensure that any decision aligns with principle of justice, and respect for the child’s autonomy.
• I would inquire about the reasons behind their desire for sex selection, addressing any concerns or misconceptions they may have. This would help me to understand if there has been any misunderstandings that need to be addressed and allows me to educate the parents.
• I would then discuss the medical aspects, highlighting any potential risks associated with sex selection methods, making sure that the parents are fully aware of any consequences associated with this.
• I would present alternative options, such as focusing on the health and well-being of the child rather than its gender. Discussing the joys and challenges of parenting and emphasizing the uniqueness of each child might help shift the focus away from gender-specific preferences.
• In conclusion, my approach as a physician would be rooted in ethical considerations, open communication, and a commitment to supporting the overall well-being of the child. The decision-making process should be collaborative, ensuring that the couple is well-informed and empowered to make choices that reflect their values while considering broader ethical implications.

Question 21

What is the difference in probity, integrity and honesty?

Answer 21

• Integrity, honesty, and probity are related concepts, but they have distinct differences in their definition.
• Probity refers to the quality of having strong moral principles and decency. It is about what your values are. It is used in the context of high moral character, uprightness, and following ethical standards in both personal and professional conduct.
• Integrity is how you uphold your values. It involves the consistency of values, methods, and principles. Individuals with integrity are often seen as trustworthy and reliable, and they adhere to a set of ethical standards even in challenging situations.
• Honesty is the quality of being truthful and straightforward. It involves the absence of deceit or misrepresentation in your words, actions, or interactions.
• Integrity is a broader concept that means consistency in various aspects of your character and behaviour. Honesty specifically focuses on truthfulness, while probity emphasizes upholding high moral principles and values.
• While integrity and honesty are more commonly used and understood in everyday language, probity is often employed in legal, ethical, or formal contexts to emphasize the highest standards of honesty and integrity, especially in professional settings.
• In summary, integrity is consistency in values and principles and how you uphold them values, honesty is the quality of truthfulness, and probity is following moral standards and integrity, particularly in a formal or professional context.

Question 22

What is the difference between sympathy and empathy?

Answer 22

• Sympathy and empathy do go hand in hand but empathy delves deeper into understanding the emotions of others.
• Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. In medicine, empathy is a crucial for patient-centred care. It goes beyond recognizing a patient’s emotions; it involves stepping into their shoes and comprehending their experiences.
• Sympathy is when you are able to recognise a persons emotions and feel pity or sorrow towards the situation they are in. While sympathy also acknowledges emotions, it doesn’t necessarily entail sharing the same emotional experience.
• Empathy is crucial in medicine as it enables you to build rapport with patients and understand their needs better by enabling better communication. This enables trust between between the doctor and patient and leads to better patient outcomes as the better the understanding, the better the care. It follows the pillar of justice, ensuring that a fair assessment and treatment plan is implemented.
• It also allows health care professionals to holistically care for patients by considering their emotional wellbeing as well as their physical wellbeing. This enabled emotional support to be made available for the patient and follows the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence in all aspects of patient care.

Question 23

What is your biggest weakness?

Answer 23

• I would say my biggest weakness is that I can be quite impulsive and headstrong at times.
  While spontaneity can be seen positively in certain situations, I recognize that it can have its drawbacks.
• I realised this was something that I need to work on when I was drawn to a pair of trainers that I really wanted. Unfortunately, the store did not have them in my size. Despite this, my impulsive nature and determination led me to purchase the shoes in a smaller size, convinced that I could make it work. Consequently, the shoes did not fit, and I realised that this meant me travelling back to the store, that was in another city, to return the trainers.
• To address this, I’ve developed a habit of pausing and taking a step back before making significant decisions, allowing myself time to think things through.
• Additionally, I’ve found that seeking advice from those around me is helpful as they can provide perspectives that I may not have considered. This is especially important in a healthcare setting where collaboration with the MDT is necessary to ensure quality of care is achieved.
• Although a weakness, I do believe that this can also reflect my ability to not conform to social pressures and stay true to my beliefs. In a medical setting, thinking on your feet is necessary, especially in emergency cases, but I understand that these quick decisions need to be in the best interest of the patient and ensure the best possible care is achieved.
• I believe self-awareness is the first step toward improvement, and I am committed to continuous self-reflection and growth.

Question 24

What is your biggest strength?

Answer 24

• My biggest strength is my organisational skills and time management skills.
• This became evident during my time as a full-time university student whilst also working as a vaccinator. In addition to these commitments, I successfully managed multiple social media accounts dedicated to my writing and took on the responsibility of overseeing social media for other businesses.
• I further demonstrated this by not only writing and publishing a book during this time but also dedicating time to my passion for photography and poetry.
• Despite this busy schedule, I maintained a disciplined routine that allowed me to consistently prioritize my commitments, including regular visits to the gym.
• These skills are directly transferable to the medical field as they enable task prioritization and disciplined routines. I believe this will benefit me as a medical student and future doctor as it will promote a healthy work-life balance as well as ensuring effective patient care, management of the intense workload and ways to handle the stress associated with the field.

Question 25

What are 3 words that your friends would describe you as? / What makes you stand out?

Answer 25

• 3 words my friends describe me as are adaptable, empathetic and determined.
• I showcased adaptability during my undergraduate degree where I frequently ran revision sessions for my peers. Everyone has different ways of learning and by utilizing the resources available, I was able to make these sessions engaging for everyone. For example, some of my peers learnt best via questions so i created mini ‘quizzes’ and others learnt via visuals so I implemented diagrams and images into my teaching methods.
• An example of my empathy is highlighted via my role as a vaccinator. During school visits, I had to navigate a difficult situation involving a young girl with significant self harm wounds. Being able to empathise with her meant open and honest communication was possible. This helped me build rapport with her and follow the pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence by ensuring she received the support she needed - both emotionally and physically in terms of taking care of her wounds. This situation also shows my adaptability during my time as a vaccinator as I had to adapt to my working environment on numerous occasions as I worked at schools, care homes, shopping centres and even bus depots.
• My determination is shown as during the pandemic, I was determined to write and publish my own book. This meant discipline and consistency to ensure that I met the quality standards I set for myself and had to figure out how to actually get published. This was a really tough time for people and I first hand saw how the pandemic affected peoples mental health through working as a vaccinator and also after having conversations with friends. I was driven by this and determined to try and help at least one person with my book. My book is now 5* rated on Amazon and this relates back to my ability to empathise.
• Overall, my adaptability, empathy, and determination aid me in medical school and my career as a doctor. These qualities will enable me to tailor not only my own learning methods in med school but also help me to adapt when teaching others as my career progresses. My determination and empathy skills will help to create trust with patients and provide the best patient outcomes whilst building my resilience for the challenges that I may face.

Question 26

What is the thing that you are least looking forward to in medicine?

Answer 26

• When I was researching medicine, one of the less appealing aspects that stuck out to me was breaking bad news. This is because the emotional toll that bad news can have on the doctors is significant but then having to discuss that to the patient or their family/friends can be very stressful and daunting.
• For example, during my role as a vaccinator, there was an individual who had previously had both doses of the Sinovac vaccination and in that moment in time, they weren’t eligible to have another dose as not enough time had passed between the doses. This was a difficult situation because the individual was already quite agitated and annoyed about having to wait in such a long queue.
• I communicated with them and what really helped was being able to understand it from their perspective too. Showing empathy and understanding that they spent over an hour waiting and how it can be frustrating was key in calming the situation down. I apologised and reassured them that they will receive the boost when enough time passes between the doses, and I think this really helped them to understand where I was coming from too.
• This is important in medicine because how you break bad news can affect the emotions of others such as patients’ family members and can cause a further distress. Ultimately, it can lead to confrontation which can be quite upsetting but as a doctor, these are real situations that you need to be able to deal with.
• Having the emotional strength and ability to break bad news is an important part of being a doctor. My ability to prioritize empathy, communication skills and active listening to help defuse difficult situations will help me as a doctor.

Question 27

A time you felt stressed and how you managed this?

Answer 27

• A time I felt stressed was during my dissertation. Although I carried out alot of research, I still felt as though the quality of my work wasn’t reaching the standards I had for myself or the standards my supervisor had for me.
• This was a stressful situation because of the large amount of time required to ensure I hit every criteria and successfully delivered my research in a well structured format.
• This meant creating a strict schedule and recognizing the importance of maintaining a work-life balance so that I could stay on-top of the workload without feeling burnt out.
• I enjoy writing both fiction stories and poetry and these acted like my creative outlets to provide me with a mental break when I felt overwhelmed by the project.
• Additionally, engaging in regular gym sessions and engaging in photography not only promoted physical well-being but also served as a powerful stress reliever, allowing me to clear my mind and regain focus.
• To conclude, I strategically organized my time, incorporating creative outlets, and prioritizing my physical wellbeing, I successfully managed the stress associated with the dissertation.
• I’m aware that med school and life as a doctor can be overwhelming and the ability to manage stress effectively is crucial. My experiences have not only equipped me with the necessary skills to handle this effectively but have made me more resilient and adaptability—qualities that will only aid me in a career in medicine.

Question 28

Ethical implications of abortion

Answer 28

• The ethical implications of abortion are complex and often depend on personal, religious, cultural, and philosophical beliefs. These can also differ from person to person. Cultural and religious beliefs often go against abortion as they take this stance on the topic however, in some religions, certain conditions can nullify this.
• I think its important to consider the conditions of the pregnancy too. If the pregnancy puts the mother or the child at risk, then abortion may be considered ethically justifiable in line with beneficence and non-maleficence.
• Psychological impact on people who want an abortion but then feel guilty after and the psychological toll on them.
• Similarly, its crucial to consider if this was a pregnancy resultant of circumstances such as rape. It would go against the ethical pillars of beneficence and non-maleficence to force a woman to carry a child from a traumatic experience which could harm her mental health.
• Some people may be ‘pro-life’ where they argue that the foetus has a right to live therefore it is seen as morally wrong because it is ending a potential human life. On the other hand, some people are pro-choice. Here, the womans autonomy is considered as it is her body and she should have the right to make any decisions that concern her.
• Social and economic factors should also be taken into consideration. For example, if a person is unable to provide a safe and stable environment for the child to grow up in, food for the child to eat etc., is it fair on them? This considers the pillar of justice and the right to necessities.
• The NHS values include respect and dignity and working together for patients. In terms of abortion, the woman is the patient and it is the duty of the doctor to act in her best interest, regardless of their personal beliefs.

Question 29

Why med?

Answer 29

• I want to study medicine because it’s a field that incorporates problem-solving with lifelong learning and hands on patient centred care. I’m someone who likes a challenge and medicine is a career that I feel will continuously enable me to explore perspectives and progress in a way that other professions such as nursing may not. For example, fitting together different pieces to figure out a correct diagnosis by utilizing my problem-solving skills.
• Nurses are essential for the success of the MDT and patient outcomes and do so in more of a caring role and follow pre-planned treatment plans whereas doctors are directly involved in such plans.
• Nursing courses have less physiology and clinical theory compared to medical school. The depth of medical knowledge appeals to me because a comprehensive understanding of the human body is gained with a medical education which helps you to not only address immediate concerns but also explore broader patient wellbeing. - My commitment to such lifelong learning is shown as I used my gap year and achieved my first journal publication via the route of self-directed learning.
• I appreciate the idea of being able to lead the MDT and having autonomy and responsibility within the team. During my work experience in paediatric surgery, I saw first-hand how important it is for the consultant to lead the team and give the team confidence by guiding them through each step. Although I was shadowing, the doctor explained the importance of the surgeries and was teaching me basic concepts at the same time. I enjoy being able to collaborate with others and I enjoy the teaching aspect of medicine. It was a role I undertook during my degree where I started to come into uni around 7am and study. This soon turned into me hosting revision sessions and creating worksheets for my friends, highlighting my ability to lead, organise and teach – all roles that a doctor will be undertaking.
• When I was younger, I suffered from a perforated appendix abroad and the doctors had said there was nothing they could do to save my life as it was too late. My family took me to different hospitals and eventually found one doctor who was willingly to try and treat me and succeeded.
• Reflecting on such a literal life-changing event filled me with gratitude and I think that doctor has also influenced me to be involved in making critical decisions and being directly involved in treatment plans.